Have you tried to read the Bible, but you cannot quite grasp what it is saying? Do you want to begin a meaningful Bible study, but you don’t know where to start? The SOAP Bible study method is just what you are looking for. Select a passage, and let’s get started.

Scripture—select a passage you want to study. The passage can come from a daily devotional or anything you are currently reading. You could use this method to study a particular topic. You must read the passage within the proper context. I would recommend you read the entire chapter. Write out the passage because it helps to slow down and process the meaning much better. 

Read the verse(s) out loud more than once. Soak up the passage for a little while before you begin. You can write out the verses in a notebook or journal. Writing helps you slow down and notice details you might otherwise miss. There is a link to a template for this method at the end of this article.

Observation—You are looking for what the passage or verses actually say. Context is so important to understand what the verse means. Are there repeated phrases or words? Does anything stand out to you? Is there something you might not have noticed before? What can I learn about God?

Don’t be afraid to park here for a while and really dive in. Write down your thoughts. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal what you are supposed to see. Don’t rush this portion. 

Application—How does this apply to me and my life? There is a danger here of making a passage mean something it doesn’t mean. A passage can never mean something to us that it didn’t mean to the original audience. 

Is there something I need to change in my life? Is there a sin that I need to confess? Is there something I need to believe? Is the Lord leading you to do something?

Prayer—Prayer is the final step. This step allows you to bring everything you have read about to the Lord. You will want to talk to God about what you have learned. He wants you to bring everything to Him. If the Lord was leading you to change or take an action; pray about it. Ask for the Holy Spirit’s help to make that all happen. Pray for understanding and wisdom. Ask God to help you live out everything that He reveals to you. Always thank God for his faithfulness to you. 

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